The Old Globe Brings The Last Match to Town

Imagine a beautiful world where sports and theatrical arts collide in the most unexpected way possible. If you’re a sports fan, this could be the best combination for you! Luckily, you won’t have to search much further, as this exact scenario is the plot of the world–premiering play The Last Match written by Anna Ziegler.

Showing from February 13th through March 13th, 2016, The Last Match, directed by Gaye Taylor Upchurch, is a comedic play revolving around the intense sport of tennis. The plot occurs during the U.S. Open Tennis Semifinals where competitors from Russia and the U.S. battle on and off the court. Their personal lives are explored as the men’s love interests and families collide with one another. More than just a game, this play will bounce between the professional and personal lives of the characters.

Possibly the most unique aspect of the play is the cast of talented actors and actresses that have collaborated to bring to life Ziegler’s piece. Familiar names from film and Broadway have made their way to this stage, promising an exciting cast of characters. Patrick J. Adams (Suits) and his real–life fiancé Troian Bellisario (Pretty Little Liars) return to their theatrical roots as the American tennis couple Tim and Mallory. Actor Alex Mickiewicz (Broadway star of Thérèse Raquin) and Natalia Payne (acting in an array of notable theatre and television appearances) play the opposing couple hailing from Russia. With this caliber of rising stars, the performance will be one you will not want to miss!

The Last Match’s author Anna Ziegler is no stranger to playwriting, adding this particular play to her repertoire of notable pieces. Ziegler’s gift as a playwright has brought in iconic actors and actresses that include Nicole Kidman, who appeared in Ziegler’s Photograph 51. An alumna of Yale and New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, her plays exemplify her attention to characters’ mindsets and bigger picture realizations. Director Gaye Taylor Upchurch is also a seasoned veteran of her profession. Upchurch has directed an array of successful plays as well. These two brilliant minds collaborating on the stage should be an exciting, innovative experience for all.

February 13th through 17^th will consist of preview performances of the show, as well as an insights seminar. Opening night is February 18^th at 8 pm, followed by regular showings through March 13^th. There will be periodic post–show forums, as well.

The performances will take place at the Sheryl & Harvey White Theatre, an extension of the Globe’s Conrad Prebys Theatre Center in Balboa Park in San Diego. Built in 1935, the Old Globe is a Shakespeare–inspired establishment that has been recognized with a Tony Award in addition to being internationally–acclaimed for its excellence. 

Game, set, and go get your tickets to experience Anna Ziegler’s world premiere of The Last Match firsthand! Tickets start at $29 and can be found on the Old Globe website in accordance with the season’s calendar and box office hours and location.